How to Develop a Trained Sense of Discernment

What comes to mind when you think of the word training?

Are you thinking of learning a new skill or training for a new job? Do you think of working out at the gym or preparing to run a 5k?

The word "training" can be associated with many things, but we don’t automatically associate it with our spiritual growth.

However, the Bible teaches us that just as physical training is vital to maintaining physical health, building our spiritual habits and practicing spiritual disciplines is essential to our spiritual health.

The Apostle Paul stressed the value of spiritual training by saying, in 1 Timothy 4:8 –

“For while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.” – 1 Timothy 4:8

The author of Hebrews highlights a crucial area of spiritual training essential for growth and endurance.

"But solid food is for the mature, who because of practice have their senses trained to discern good and evil." — Hebrews 5:14

Discernment is a skill we develop over time. Just as athletes train their bodies through repetition, mature believers train their spiritual senses through consistent practice. The writer of Hebrews warned that those still feeding on "milk" were unskilled in applying God’s word to their lives.

Spiritual discernment is not automatic—it comes from consistently practicing what we learn in Scripture. This practice enables us to navigate life with wisdom, recognizing good and evil.

Consider these questions:

• What practical steps am I taking to apply God’s word daily?

• How can I develop habits that train my discernment in decisions big and small?

Spiritual maturity is marked by discernment. Although my discernment muscles may seem weak now, I can train daily and see great improvement in this area over time. So, let’s do it. Let’s train!

Join me in committing to training our senses by applying God’s word daily, sharpening our ability to walk in His will.

Blessings in your journey,

Pastor Bob

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About Pastor Bob Moya, DMin.

Pastor Bob Moya has served as the lead pastor with his wife Candace at City Chapel in Arlington, Texas for over 22+ years. He recently graduated with a doctorate degree in Spiritual Renewal and Leadership in the spring of 2024. When not serving at the church, you'll find Bob enjoying a good read at Barnes & Noble, sipping a nitro cold brew or black coffee from Starbucks, or spending time with his family.